12x36 IS II Image Stabilisation binoculars... Improvements to the objective lens assembly have resulted in the binoculars being approximately 26% lighter and 10% smaller than the 12x36 IS model they replace. And reductions in power consumption mean a massive 270% increase in battery life of up to four hours using two AA-size alkaline batteries.With any high magnification binoculars, most users will experience frustrating image shake. Unless fixed to a tripod, image shake can render high magnification binoculars useless. Canon's IS technology is remarkably effective at eliminating this problem and is widely used by the television industry with Canon's professional broadcast quality video recording equipment.A special VAP (Vari-Angle Prism) corrective IS system sits between the objective lens group and the porro prism on each side of the binoculars. Within thousandths of a second of the binoculars being moved from their optical axis by vibrations, a detection system activates the IS mechanism. The VAP shape alters to refract or 'bend' the light path by precisely the right amount, thus fully compensating for the vibration. It is this essentially immediate response that effectively suppresses image shake.The binoculars' compact design is based on Canon's popular 10x30 IS model. Curved surfaces mean easy handling, while nature lovers will appreciate the low-reflectance exterior and low gloss front covers, which help to avoid disturbing birds and other wildlife.The large IS button at the top and centre of the binoculars is easily accessible by a finger from either hand, while the large focusing dial also falls under the finger and rotates with a smooth action. Durable, large rubber covers over the entire objective lens assemblies provide improved impact resistance and the eyepieces have large rubber eyecups, making it easy to see through the eyepiece lens.With the 12x36 IS II binoculars, Canon has achieved a generous 60º apparent field of view, allowing users to see more of the viewed object than is afforded by some competitor products in the same class. The eyepiece lenses of the 12x36 IS II binoculars feature Canon's Doublet Field Flattener lens.This dramatically reduces the curvature of field, image distortion and blurring at the periphery found in traditional high-magnification binoculars, to deliver a beautifully flat, natural and even image. A long eye relief permits users to see the full field of view from up to 14.5mm from the eyepiece lens. This means easier, more comfortable viewing of the total image and is also ideal for users wearing spectacles.These new binoculars draw on Canon's 70 years of experience in precision optics and lens development. Canon's Super Spectra lens coatings deliver bright and clear images with accurate colour balance, eliminating unwanted internal reflections that cause 'flare' and can have the effect of 'washing out' images.The Canon 12x36 IS is commonly used for Astronomy, Bird watching, Sporting events/concerts, Wildlife viewing and more.The Canon 12x36 IS is most used by customers who consider themselves to be a Casual/ recreational among others.The Canon 12x36 IS is popular because customers like the following qualities of the Canon 12x36 IS: Compact, Lightweight, Quality lenses and Strong construction.